International Trade

The United States Trade Representative’s (USTR) office announced today, that the World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute settlement panel found in favor of the United States’ challenge to Indonesia’s wide-ranging restrictions and prohibitions on horticultural products, animals, and animal products.

The United States filed this dispute to address trade barriers in Indonesia that restrict the importation of American fruits and vegetables, animal products, and other agricultural products.

Western Growers’ President and CEO Tom Nassif issued a statement yesterday on Donald Trump being elected as the 45th president of the United States.

Nassif congratulated President-elect Trump and Vice-president-elect Mike Pence on a “well-earned victory.” He also expressed optimism that the new president and his administration “will work together to pursue pragmatic solutions to key agricultural issues, including immigration reform, water supply, environmental regulations, international trade and the farm bill.”

Japan has notified the United States’ government that a recent export shipment of celery to Japan was found to exceed Japan’s MRL tolerance resulting in a cited violation. Since this is the second time such a violation has been detected on celery within the last few months, Japan has now instituted an intensified inspection program.

The Farm Foundation Forum held a panel discussion today to address food and agriculture issues likely to be faced by the next administration. Ken Barbic, senior director of federal government affairs, participated in the event and focused on labor issues.

In his remarks, Barbic outlined the need for immigration reform and the industry’s policy priorities, including legal status for existing workers and a new market-orientated visa program to replace the bureaucratic, costly and challenged H-2A program.